338 Marlin Express and 338 RCM

tlo7mm · Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2011 12:32 am Post subject: 338 Marlin Express and 338 RCM

So I am looking at getting a larger bore rifle and I am quite intrigued by the 338 Marlin Express and the 338 Ruger Compact Mag. I was hoping that someone on here may be at least a little familiar with either or both of these rounds. Any information would be appriciated.

chambered221

IMO the 300 and 338 RCM's is what Winchester should have created when they set out on their short and fat concept !!!
I honestly believe there would be a lot less controversy on the subject.

The sad part is Ruger don't seem to have the following as others do and these great cartridges will probably fall by the wayside.

Personally I wouldn't hesitate at buying either one of the RCM's should I have the need !!!

tlo7mm

thanks for the info. I am pretty impressed with the RCM's especially the 338. I also plan on reloading for it so ammo availablility isn't as much of an issue.

Arizona Hunter · Member Joined: Jul 22, 2006 Posts: 275

Both appear to be good rounds ballistically with the Ruger having about 380 FPS more at the muzzle (using a Hornady 200 gr superformance and 200 gr Leverevolution)). The RCM is more comparable to the .338 Win and with the same 200 gr. SST Superformance the RCM is only 80 FPS slower than the .338 Win.

So, I guess if you are looking for a hard hitting long range (out to 400 yds) cartridge to handle 200, 225 or 250 gr. bullets for elk, moose or big bears the RCM is the way to go. If you limit your shots to 300 yards and like the look and feel of the beautiful Marlin XLR then maybe the Marlin Express is the better choice.